Q: How does Gordon Ramsay cook bacon brown sugar?

A: Gordon Ramsay often caramelizes bacon with brown sugar by cooking it slowly in a pan or oven to allow the sugar to melt and coat the bacon, creating a deliciously sticky and sweet glaze. This method is similar to how you prepare the bacon for Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders, ensuring the perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Q: Can I cook raw chicken and raw bacon together?

A: Yes, you can cook raw chicken and raw bacon together, but it’s important to ensure both are cooked thoroughly to safe temperatures. Wrapping chicken tenders with bacon and baking them together, like in this recipe, allows the bacon fat to baste the chicken, keeping it juicy and flavorful while crisping the bacon perfectly.

Q: Can I put brown sugar on bacon?

A: Absolutely! Sprinkling brown sugar on bacon before cooking adds a sweet caramelized crust that pairs beautifully with the smoky saltiness of bacon. This technique is a key step in making Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders.

Q: Can you put brown sugar on chicken?

A: Yes, brown sugar works great as a seasoning on chicken. It helps create a flavorful glaze that caramelizes during cooking, adding a sweet contrast to savory seasonings. In this recipe, brown sugar enhances both the bacon and chicken flavors for a delicious finish.

7 Steps to Make the Best Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders (Sweet & Savory Recipe) - Mary Recipes

Description

Indulge in these irresistible Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders — juicy chicken tenders wrapped in smoky bacon and coated with a sweet, caramelized brown sugar glaze. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside, this easy recipe is a crowd-pleaser for weeknights, game days, or any occasion. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a gourmet-tasting dish that balances savory, sweet, and smoky flavors beautifully. Serve with your favorite dips or sides to elevate your meal!

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenders: Tender cuts ideal for quick cooking and easy wrapping.
8–10 strips of thin-cut bacon: Choose thin bacon for even cooking and a perfect crisp.
½ cup brown sugar (light or dark): Adds a sweet caramelized crust that balances the smoky bacon.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Enhances natural flavors.
1 tsp smoked paprika (optional): Adds a subtle smoky depth, enhancing the savory-sweet balance.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a crispy bacon finish while cooking the chicken thoroughly.
Prepare the chicken tenders: Pat dry with paper towels to remove moisture—this helps seasonings stick and promotes crispiness.
Season the chicken: Lightly sprinkle salt, pepper, and smoked paprika evenly over each tender for a balanced flavor profile.
Wrap each tender with bacon: Secure one strip of bacon tightly around each chicken tender, covering as much surface as possible to hold the brown sugar coating.
Coat with brown sugar: Roll or sprinkle the tenders in brown sugar, pressing gently to help the sugar stick and create a caramelized crust during baking.
Arrange tenders on a baking sheet: Line the sheet with foil for easy cleanup and use a wire rack to allow air circulation, helping the bacon crisp evenly.
Bake for 25–30 minutes: Flip halfway through cooking (12–15 minutes) to ensure even caramelization and thorough cooking.
Optional broil: For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end—watch closely to avoid burning.
Check doneness: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), with crispy, browned bacon.

Notes

For best results, use thin-cut bacon so it cooks evenly without overcooking the chicken.
If you want a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
Using a wire rack on the baking sheet prevents sogginess by letting air circulate under the tenders.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course, Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Nutrition

Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 28g